Syria has filed a request with the United Nations to accede to the Chemical Weapons Convention. Responding to the news, Foreign Minister Westerwelle stated:

"The Syrian request to accede to the international Chemical Weapons Convention is a positive first step to securing the chemical weapons stockpiles in Syria, which we and others have demanded.

It is now of the utmost importance that Syria meet the related obligations for the disclosure, control and destruction of its chemical weapons.

We will judge Damascus on whether it now follows up this first step with rigorous progress towards implementation.Together with our partners, we will continue to vigorously push to ensure that every opportunity for a political solution in the Syrian conflict is seized."

Peace and Security

Regional conflicts, fragile or collapsed states, armed conflicts, terrorism and organized crime – all have grave consequences for the people who suffer under them. They also threaten the security and stability of entire regions and peoples.